A reluctance to update Windows is understandable. After all, it's an OS notoriously loaded with features that slow down your computer. Skipping Windows updates doesn't often lead to dramatic system failures, but it does leave known security holes open for attackers to exploit. Windows Update is not just about features; it is also the main way Microsoft closes security gaps that make systems vulnerable. When systems are vulnerable, they are easy targets for bad actors and can lead to remote code execution, privilege escalation, ransomware, and boot-level compromise.